Like the rest of your body, your skin changes as you age. And while you may not be able to turn back the hands of time, there are some things you can do to slow down the aging process and keep your skin looking its best. Most men tend to neglect their skin, but taking good care of it now will pay off later. Here are some tips for keeping your skin looking young and healthy.

1. Use sunscreen

This one is a no-brainer. Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging, so it’s essential to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Some men avoid sunscreen because they don’t like the way it feels. But plenty of options are available that go on smoothly and don’t leave a greasy residue. And if you’re worried about looking like a ghost, opt for sunscreen with a bit of color in it. Tinted sunscreens can help even out your skin tone and give you a healthy-looking glow.

2. Quit smoking

Smoking accelerates the aging process by damaging collagen and elastin, two proteins that keep your skin looking young and healthy. It also reduces blood flow to the skin, which can lead to wrinkles. Many men start smoking in their teens or early 20s, meaning the damage can add up over time. So if you’re a smoker, stopping as early as you can is the best thing you can do for your skin—and your health.

There may be no easy way to quit smoking, but there are plenty of resources available to help you kick the habit. Talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy or prescription medications to help make quitting easier. You can also find support groups and other quitting resources online or in your community. If you’re struggling to quit, don’t give up—keep trying until you succeed.

3. Consider skin treatments

If you’re starting to see signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, or age spots, there are several skin treatments that can help. For example, the facial dermaplaning procedure is a quick, minimally invasive treatment that can help exfoliate your skin and remove peach fuzz. It can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Botox and fillers are other popular options for reducing the signs of aging. Botox injections help to relax the muscles that contribute to wrinkles, while fillers work to rejuvenate the skin and smooth out fine lines. There are also laser treatments available that can help improve the tone and texture of your skin. Ask your doctor about the best options for you.

4. Eat healthily

A healthy diet does more than just improve your overall health; it also benefits your skin. Foods rich in antioxidants, like fruits, vegetables, and green tea, can help protect you from free radicals. Found in salmon and other cold-water fish, omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation and keep your skin looking its best.

For a less drastic way to improve your diet, try taking a daily multivitamin. A good multivitamin will help ensure you get the nutrients you need for healthy skin, including vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins are essential for maintaining skin health and preventing damage from free radicals.

5. Get enough sleep

Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, but it’s also crucial for healthy skin. When you don’t get enough shut-eye, it shows—in the form of dark circles under your eyes and a dull complexion. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night to keep your skin looking its best. If you have trouble sleeping, try some of these tips:

– Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible.

– Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.

– Avoid working or using electronic devices in bed.

– Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down before sleep.

You can also talk to your doctor about possible sleep disorders if you’re still having trouble sleeping despite making these changes. Some common sleep disorders include insomnia and sleep apnea. This can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep and can lead to other health problems. Ask your doctor about treatment options if you think you might have a sleep disorder.

Taking care of your skin is essential at any age, but it’s especially important as you age. By following these simple tips, you can slow down the aging process and keep your skin looking its best for years to come. Always consult with a dermatologist or other healthcare provider if you have concerns about your skin health.